Flexible liquid crystal cells and lenses

ABSTRACT

A flexible optical element adopting liquid crystals (LCs) as the materials for realizing electrically tunable optics is foldable. A method for manufacturing the flexible element includes patterned photo-polymerization. The LC optics can include a pair of LC layers with orthogonally aligned LC directors for polarizer-free properties, flexible polymeric alignment layers, flexible substrates, and a module for controlling the electric field. The lens power of the LC optics can be changed by controlling the distribution of electric field across the optical zone.

PRIORITY APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/544,543, filed 11 Aug. 2017, which application is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND Field

The present invention relates to electroactive optics and lenses using such optics and, in particular, to flexible liquid crystal cells and lenses.

Description of Related Art

As soft contact lenses are handled by contact lens wearers, they are subject to deformation. In some cases, the lenses may be folded in half over short folding radii, as small as 2 millimeters or so. Thus, the soft contact lens should be flexible enough to endure this deformation without damage over reasonable useable lifetime. It is desirable also that the lens be elastic in the sense that it is capable of recovering its size and shape and of retaining the optical properties of the lens after recovering from the deformation. A number of polymers, including hydrogel contact lenses and silicone hydrogel contact lenses, have been developed with flexibility and elasticity in mind.

In electroactive lenses, the electroactive components, such as liquid crystal cells, can be embedded in a lens body made of a flexible and elastic polymer. However, electroactive components can limit both the flexibility and the elasticity of the lens body as a whole.

It is desirable to provide a lens with electroactive components that is both flexible and elastic.

SUMMARY

An elastic or flexible, electrically tunable liquid crystal lens is described. The liquid crystal lens includes a cell with a cell gap thickness that is substantially retained after it has been folded and returned to its original shape. Thus, the shape and optical properties of the liquid crystal lens can recover after folding.

Embodiments described include an electroactive cell comprising a liquid crystal in a gap between polymeric alignment layers, with an array of polymer posts disposed in the gap between the alignment layers.

In examples described herein, one or more of the alignment layers comprises a flexible polymeric material including embedded liquid crystal moieties.

Some examples of an electrically tunable lens described herein comprise a first alignment layer and a second alignment layer; an array of elastic polymer posts in a gap between the first alignment layer and the second alignment layer, posts in the array extending from the first alignment layer to the second alignment layer; liquid crystal confined in the gap between the first and second alignment layers around posts in the array; and one or more electrodes arranged to induce an electric field in the liquid crystal.

A polarization-independent example includes a third alignment layer and a second array of elastomer posts in a second gap between the second alignment layer and the third alignment layer, posts in the second array extending from the second alignment layer to the third alignment layer. Also, liquid crystal is confined in the second gap around posts in the second array. The second alignment layer in the example can include liquid crystal moieties having directors aligned orthogonal to an optical path and parallel near a first surface adjacent to the first mentioned gap, and directors aligned orthogonal to an optical path near a second surface adjacent to the second mentioned gap and orthogonal to the directors near the first surface.

Methods for manufacturing flexible liquid crystal cells are described, including formation of polymer posts in liquid crystal layers by photo-polymerization according to a pattern. In an embodiment described herein, the method includes assembling a first flexible alignment layer and a second flexible alignment layer with a gap therebetween; forming flexible or elastic polymer posts extending across the gap between the first flexible alignment layer and the second flexible alignment layer; and providing liquid crystal material surrounding the posts in the gap. In embodiments described herein, the method includes providing a combination of a liquid crystal material and a polymer precursor material in the gap, and forming the elastic posts by inducing phase separation of the polymer precursor and liquid crystal, and polymerizing the polymer precursor according to a pattern.

Various combinations and additions to the devices and methods are described below.

Other aspects and advantages of the present invention can be seen on review of the drawings, the detailed description and the claims, which follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a simplified illustration showing folding of a flexible lens with an electroactive cell as described herein.

FIG. 2 illustrates a flexible liquid crystal electroactive cell having a single liquid crystal layer.

FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C and 3D illustrate alternative embodiments of a polarization-independent, flexible liquid crystal electroactive cell having two liquid crystal layers.

FIGS. 4(a), 4(b), 4(c), 4(d), 4(e) and 4(f) illustrate stages in a manufacturing process for a flexible electroactive cell.

FIG. 5 shows an example layout for a lithographic mask used in processes like that of FIGS. 4(a), 4(b), 4(c), 4(d), 4(e) and 4(f).

FIGS. 6(a), 6(b), 6(c), 6(d), 6(e) and 6(f) illustrate stages in the manufacturing of a polymeric layer like that used in the structure of FIGS. 2 and 3A, 3B, 3C, and 3D.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a curved, flexible liquid crystal electroactive cell.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example of a curved, flexible liquid crystal electroactive cell having two layers of liquid crystal.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a two-layer liquid crystal cell, having hybrid alignment in the liquid crystal layers.

FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a two-layer liquid crystal cell, having hybrid alignment in the liquid crystal layers with an alternative electrode position.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example of a two-layer liquid crystal cell with a curved dielectric layer.

FIG. 12 illustrates another example of a two-layer liquid crystal cell with a curved dielectric layer, with hybrid alignment in the liquid crystal layers.

FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a two-layer liquid crystal cell, with lens power in liquid crystal polymeric films.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A detailed description of embodiments of the present invention is provided with reference to the FIGS. 1-13.

FIG. 1 illustrates a lens 10 having an electroactive cell 11 embedded therein. The lens 10 is flexible and can comprise a hydrogel material or a silicone hydrogel material for example. The electroactive cell 11 includes electroactive material and at least one electronic component that is used to change the refractive power of the lens. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the lens 10 can be folded when it is made of a flexible material as it is handled by the user. For example, when the lens 10 is a contact lens, then the user may fold the lens when inserting and removing it from the eye. When the lens is folded as illustrated in the lower portion of the Figure, the radius R of the fold can be very small particularly in region 12. For example, a lens can be folded on a fold radius on the order of 1 to 9 mm. When the lens is folded, the electroactive cell 11 can be deformed.

In embodiments described herein, the electroactive cell is elastic in the sense that it recovers its shape and its tunable or adjustable optical characteristics when returned to its original shape, after it is folded.

FIG. 2 illustrates a flexible single layer liquid crystal cell which is elastic in the sense described above. The liquid crystal cell includes a liquid crystal layer 25 disposed in a gap between an upper (first) polymeric layer 24 and a lower (second) polymeric layer 27, where the polymeric layers 24, 27 comprise a flexible or elastic polymer mixed with liquid crystal moieties configured to act as alignment layers for the liquid crystal layer 25. The polymeric layers 24, 27 have liquid crystal moieties having a vertical director in the central region of the layers, and horizontal directors on the surfaces. In the upper polymeric layer 24 in this example, the directors near the surfaces are orthogonal to the z-axis 5, which can be the optical axis, and horizontal relative to the major surface of the liquid crystal layer 25, extending into and out of the plane of the illustration. In the lower polymeric layer 27 in this example, the directors on the opposing surfaces are horizontal relative to the major surface of the liquid crystal layer 25, extending into and out of the plane of the illustration. The orientations of the directors in this example result in the alignment directions on the upper and lower surfaces of the liquid crystal layer 25 being parallel to one another.

In this example, the liquid crystal layer 25 has a uniform thickness T between the polymeric layers 24, 27, at least across an effective aperture of the liquid crystal cell. For the purposes of this description, a liquid crystal layer has a uniform thickness across an effective aperture of a cell when a user of the cell perceives the optical performance as falling within a range expected for a cell having a nominally uniform thickness, as such a range can occur in a commercial manufacturing setting subject to environmental, manufacturing and material variances.

An array of posts (e.g. post 26) is disposed in the gap between the polymeric layers 24, 27 inside the liquid crystal layer. The posts in the array extend from the upper polymeric layer 24 to the lower polymeric layer 27, and tend to maintain the thickness T. The posts (e.g. 26) can comprise a polymer or polymeric material. Preferably the posts are elastic. Also, preferably, the polymeric layers comprise an elastic polymer or elastomer.

Liquid crystal material is confined in the gap between the first and second polymeric layers around the posts in the array of posts, and acts as the active element of the cell, changing the optical characteristics of the cell in response to an applied electric field.

In this example, electrical components used to apply an electric field in the liquid crystal layer 25 are disposed in a dielectric polymer (including layers 20, 22, 29 in this example). The electrical components include a resistive layer 23, a circular hole patterned electrode layer 21 over the upper polymeric layer 24, and transparent pad electrode layer 28 below the lower polymeric layer 27. In this, and in other embodiments described herein, the patterned electrode layer can have patterns other than a circular hole in some embodiments, including pixelated patterns, and ring-shaped patterns, for more complex control of the shape of the electric field vectors in the liquid crystal layer.

In one representative embodiment, the substrate of the liquid crystal cell includes the dielectric layers 20, 22 comprising polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) about 17 μm thick each. The dielectric layer 29 likewise comprises PDMS about 17 μm thick or less. The patterned and pad electrode layers 21, 28 can comprise a flexible electrode material about 1 μm thick or less. The liquid crystal layer 25 can be about 30-40 μm thick, such as about 34 μm thick. The upper and lower polymeric layers can be about 6 to 7 μm thick. In this example, the cell has a total thickness of about 98 μm.

In a further embodiment, the substrate of the liquid crystal cell includes the dielectric layers 20, 22 comprising PDMS, each dielectric layer has a thickness from 15 μm to 20 μm. Similarly, the dielectric layer 29 can comprise PDMS and have a thickness from 15 μm to 20 μm. The patterned and pad electrode layers 21, 28 can comprise a flexible electrode material having a thickness from 0.1 μm to 1 μm. The liquid crystal layer 25 can be 25 μm to 45 μm thick. The upper and lower polymer layers can each have a thickness from 5 μm to 10 μm.

In a representative embodiment, the thickness T of the liquid crystal layer 25 is about 34 μm.

In some embodiments, the thickness T is a constant thickness throughout the optical zone of the liquid crystal layer 25, where the optical zone is the effective aperture in which the tunable lens effect is utilized.

A uniform thickness for the cell in this example can be a thickness that varies by less than 1.2 microns from the center of the optic to the edge of the effective aperture. In some embodiments, the variation of thickness T within the effective aperture can be maintained within 0.5 micron.

Embodiments of the liquid crystal cells described herein can maintain optical properties after having been folded over a small radius, and returned to the original shape. For example, in an embodiment comprising a cell gap having an average original thickness T with the liquid crystal layer before folding of about 10 μm, the average thickness T can return to within 10% of its original thickness, or to an average thickness in the range of 9 to 11 μm. In other embodiments, the average thickness T can return to within 2% of its original thickness, or to an average thickness in the range of 9.8 to 10.2 μm. The average thickness of the cell gap or the liquid crystal layer can be determined by measuring the thickness at multiple locations and adding those measurements together and dividing by the number of measurements. The measurements can be taken along a single diameter of the liquid crystal layer (if it has a circular shape), or they can be taken along random points around the liquid crystal layer.

Depending on the requirements of particular implementations, the materials of the flexible dielectric layers 20, 22, 29 acting a substrate for the liquid crystal layer can be chosen from a variety of polymers and elastomers and combinations thereof suitable for utilization in a lens, including PDMS-containing materials, PET (polyethylene terephthalate)-containing materials, and hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA)-containing materials.

Depending on the requirements of particular implementations, representative materials usable for the patterned electrode layer 21 and for the transparent pad electrode 28 can be poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS), indium tin oxide (ITO), indium zinc oxide (IZO), graphene, silver nanowires and copper metal mesh, and combinations of materials.

A function of resistive layer 23 is to help distribute the electric field into the center of the effective aperture of the lens. The resistive layer 23 has a relatively high resistance relative to the electrodes, and can be referred to as a highly resistive layer. With the resistive layer 23, the operating voltage can be decreased in some examples. The sheet resistance of a resistive layer can be around 10⁶˜10⁸ Ω/sq depending on the lens materials and specifications. The resistive layer can be made by mixing PEDOT:PSS solution and PVA (Poly(vinyl alcohol)) solution. The sheet resistance can be controlled for example by the weight ratio between two solutions.

Liquid crystals (LC) are optical anisotropic materials which have a birefringence property. Consider a linear-polarized light which is normally incident to LC optics and the polarization direction and long axis of LC molecules are in the same plane. The light experiences an effective refractive index which is determined by the angle between polarization-direction of light and the director of LC. In addition, the orientation of LC molecules can be controlled by external electric fields. Therefore, a non-uniform electric field on the LC layer with uniform thickness will cause spatial distribution of the orientation of LC molecules. The spatial distribution of the orientation of LC molecules will also form a spatial distribution of effective optical path. By appropriate design, the spatial distribution of effective optical path can realize the lens effect with different lens powers.

LCs can be polarization dependent, which can cost at least 50% of light efficiency when used in combination with a polarizer. To realize polarization-independent LC optics, a pair of LC layers with identical thickness and orthogonally aligned LC directors, as implemented in the examples shown in FIGS. 3A to 3D, can be used. Using the pair of LC layers with orthogonal directors, two Eigen-polarizations of light experience the same phase shift, resulting in a polarization-independent, tunable lens.

FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate alternative embodiments of flexible, two-layer liquid crystal cells which are elastic in the sense described above. These alternative embodiments can be made using materials discussed above with respect to FIG. 2.

In FIG. 3A, the cell includes a first liquid crystal layer 45 and a second liquid crystal layer 48. The first liquid crystal layer 45 is disposed in a gap between an upper (first) liquid crystal polymeric layer 44 and an intermediate (second) liquid crystal polymeric layer 47. The second liquid crystal layer 48 is disposed in a gap between the intermediate liquid crystal polymeric layer 47, and a lower (third) liquid crystal polymeric layer 50.

The upper polymeric layer 44 has directors on the lower surface adjacent the liquid crystal layer 45 that are parallel to the surface of the liquid crystal layer 45, and orthogonal to the plane of the illustration. The intermediate polymeric layer 47 has directors on the upper surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 45 that are parallel to the surface of liquid crystal layer 45, and orthogonal to the plane of the illustration (i.e., parallel to the directors on the lower surface of the upper polymeric layer 44). The intermediate polymeric layer 47 has directors on the lower surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 48 that are parallel to the surface of the liquid crystal layer 48, and parallel to the plane of the illustration (i.e. orthogonal to the directors on the upper surface of the intermediate polymeric layer 47). Lower polymeric layer 50 has directors on its upper surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 48 parallel to the surface of the liquid crystal layer 48 and parallel to the plane of the illustration (i.e., parallel to the directors on the lower surface of the intermediate polymeric layer 47).

The polymeric layers 44, 47, 50 act as alignment layers for the liquid crystal layers. The intermediate polymeric layer 47 has orthogonal directors on its upper and lower surfaces. The upper and lower polymeric layers 44, 50 may be replaced in some embodiments by other alignment layer materials, such as a brushed polyimide layer. Utilizing brushed polyimide in the intermediate polymeric layer may not be practical, because of optical losses and other problems. Thus, the alignment technique between the liquid crystal layers in preferred embodiments involves the use of a liquid crystal polymeric layer with orthogonal directors on its upper and lower surfaces.

The liquid crystal layers 45 and 48 comprise liquid crystal material confined in the gap, and have identical thicknesses between the polymeric layers, within reasonable manufacturing and optical performance tolerances.

An array of posts (e.g. 46) is disposed in a gap between the upper polymeric layer 44 and the intermediate polymeric layer 47, and is surrounded by the liquid crystal material in the liquid crystal layer 45. The posts in the array extend from the upper polymeric layer 44 to the intermediate polymeric layer 47, tending to maintain the thickness as discussed above.

A second array of posts (e.g. 49) is disposed in a gap between the intermediate polymeric layer 47 and the lower polymeric layer 50. The second array of posts is surrounded by the liquid crystal material in the liquid crystal layer 48 confined in the gap.

In this example, electrical components are disposed in a dielectric polymer substrate, including layers 40, 43, 52. Electrical components include a resistive layer 41, a patterned electrode layer 42 disposed over the upper polymeric layer 44, and a transparent pad electrode layer 51 below the lower polymeric layer 50.

The liquid crystal cell of FIG. 3A can maintain its optical properties after having been folded over a small radius, and returned to the original shape.

In general, the two-layer liquid crystal cell can provide a positive lens power for unpolarized light, when an electric field is applied through patterned electrodes. The added lens power by the liquid crystal layers is tunable by changing the amplitude, frequency or both of the applied electric field.

FIGS. 3B through 3D illustrate alternative configurations of two-layer liquid crystal cells like that of FIG. 3A. The same reference numerals are utilized to refer to like components, which are not described again in some instances. The liquid crystal cells of FIGS. 3B-3D can likewise maintain their optical properties after having been folded over a small radius, and returned to the original shape.

As shown in FIG. 3B, in alternative configurations, a polyimide layer can be used with the resistive layer to improve its uniformity. Thus, in FIG. 3B the two-layer liquid crystal cell is modified by adding a polyimide layer 60 in contact with the resistive layer 41.

In FIG. 3C, an embodiment is illustrated in which the two-layer liquid crystal cell is modified by the addition of the polyimide layer 60 in contact with the resistive layer 41, and by moving the upper patterned electrode layer 42 into contact with the upper surface of the upper polymeric layer 44, thereby eliminating the region of layer 43 of the dielectric substrate that is shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B. This has the effect of decreasing the required operating voltage and total thickness of the flexible liquid crystal cell.

In FIG. 3D, an embodiment is illustrated in which the two-layer liquid crystal cell is modified relative to the structure of FIG. 3A, by moving the resistive layer 41 into contact with the upper surface of the upper polymeric layer 44, eliminating much of the region of layer 43 of the dielectric substrate, and eliminating the polyimide layer of FIG. 3B and FIG. 3C. This further reduces the overall thickness of the structure, and eliminates the requirement for the polyimide layer.

An embodiment of a method for manufacturing flexible liquid crystal cell like that of FIG. 2 is illustrated in FIG. 4(a) to FIG. 4(f).

FIG. 4(a) illustrates an empty process cell as a first illustrated stage in the process. The empty process cell consists of upper and lower glass layers 80, 82 which act as cover layers during the forming of the cell. The glass layers are coated with the substrate dielectric material 70, 72, 79, the electrode material 71, 78, the resistive layer 73, and the alignment layers 74, 77, which in this example are polymeric layers as discussed above. The upper electrode material 71 is patterned to define a hole used to induce a variable electric field as discussed above to provide for a tunable lens power. The lower electrode material 78 is disposed in a pad shape. A Mylar film spacer 75 is disposed between the upper polymeric layer 74 and the lower polymeric layer 77 to define a gap 76 in which the liquid crystal layer and the array of posts is to be formed. In this example, the Mylar film spacer 75 defines a gap thickness of 35 μm.

As shown in FIG. 4(b), in a next stage of the manufacturing a combination of the liquid crystal material and polymer precursors is injected into the gap 76, relying on capillary force for example. In some embodiments, the combination includes liquid crystalline monomer moieties 100, a photo-initiator 101, and liquid crystal moieties 102. More specifically in one example process, a combination consists of nematic LC (LCM-1656), liquid crystalline monomer (RM257), and a photo-initiator (IRG184) at ratio of 99 wt %:0.5 wt %:0.5 wt %. LCM-1656 can be obtained from LC Matter Corp., (e.g., Orlando, Fla., USA; lcmatter.com), RM-257 and IRG-184 can be obtained from Merck or Merck KgaA (Darmstadt, Germany, merckgroup.com). The materials chosen preferably result in formation of polymer posts having sufficient stiffness to resist severe deformation, but having good elasticity in order to restore the cell gap in the structure after bending.

FIG. 4(c) illustrates a next stage in the manufacturing process. The cell, with the combination material injected into the gap 76, is aligned with the lithographic mask 110 that defines an array of holes 112, 113. The structure is then exposed to actinic radiation 111, such as UV radiation in the present example. During the exposure, in a phase separation process the liquid crystal moieties 125 drift away from the regions exposed to the ultraviolet light through the holes 112, 113, while the liquid crystal monomers 120, 121 drift into the region of exposure.

As illustrated in FIG. 4(d), during the exposure 111, polymer chains 135 form by photo-polymerization among the liquid crystal monomers 120, 121 to form an array of posts extending between the polymeric layers 74, 77.

The exposure 111 can be carried out at low temperature, below 100° C. and, in the example being described, near room temperature (about 20-25° C.). This low temperature photo-polymerization allows manufacturing without damage to the layers of the structure that are supported by the glass covers during the photo-polymerization process.

In the next stage, as shown in FIG. 4(e), the cell is removed from the lithographic system, with elastic polymer posts extending from an upper surface of the lower polymeric layer 77 to the lower surface of the upper polymeric layer 74, and with liquid crystal filling the gap and surrounding the posts.

FIG. 4(f) illustrates a following stage, in which the glass layers (covers) 80, 82 are removed, leaving the flexible, tunable liquid crystal cell, such as that shown in FIG. 2.

The liquid crystal cell is sealed by the Mylar spacers in this example using a UV curable polymer. In this example, the posts are formed in a mixture of liquid crystal and monomers during curing by the photo-polymerization. In another embodiment, the posts may be formed in a first step, followed by removal of uncured material leaving a network of posts, and then by injection of liquid crystal after the removal around the network of posts. In some examples, the liquid crystal cell can be sealed during the curing by using the patterned mask to define a sealing region, and closing the cell by the same material as used to make the posts.

This manufacturing process is extendable to the two-layer cell, such as shown in FIGS. 3A-3D, by adding the intermediate polymeric layer, and a second Mylar spacer to define the second gap. Otherwise, similar processing steps are applied for the two-layer cell.

FIG. 5 illustrates a representative layout for the lithographic mask 110, which can be used in the stage of the process described with reference to FIG. 4(c) and FIG. 4(d). In this example, the mask layout comprises an array of circular holes 250, 251 having a diameter of about 50 μm, and a pitch of about 500 μm in both the horizontal and vertical dimensions. This layout was selected for a liquid crystal layer about 35 μm thick, using the materials discussed above. Other layouts can be chosen according to the needs of a particular embodiment. The density of the holes translates into a density of posts that are disposed in the gap between the polymeric layers. The density should be selected so as not to interfere significantly with the electro-optic performance of the cell, while maintaining sufficient elasticity in the sense discussed above so that the shape of the cell returns to its original shape, after having been deformed by folding.

The holes need not be circular as illustrated in FIG. 5, but can be elliptical, rectangular, or other more complex shapes. The preferred shape and density of shapes can be determined using empirical methods or simulation.

FIGS. 6(a) to 6(f) illustrate stages of an embodiment of a method for manufacturing the polymeric layers, which are used as alignment layers in the embodiments discussed above. FIG. 6(a) illustrates a stage of the process including an empty process cell consisting of glass layers 800, 801 coated with respective layers 802, 806 of a conductor such as ITO, and alignment layers 803, 805, such as brushed polyimide, which have been configured to align the directors of the liquid crystal material in the polymeric layer on the opposing surfaces of the polymeric layer according to orientations required for the examples described above. A Mylar spacer 804 maintains a gap 810 between the glass layers 800, 801 with a thickness that can be adjusted depending on the design. For example, the thicknesses of the upper and lower polymeric layers 24, 27 in FIG. 2 are about 7 μm, and the thickness of the polymeric layer 47 in FIGS. 3A-3D is about 35 um.

As illustrated in FIGS. 6(b), a mixture of a liquid crystal material including moieties 852, a monomer 851 and a photo-initiator 850 is injected into the empty process cell at a temperature of about 90° C. As a result of the alignment layers 803, 806, the monomer, which can be a mesomer having liquid crystal properties, and liquid crystal are aligned in the mixture according to the direction set by the alignment layers 803, 806. In this example, the directors in this liquid phase are aligned in the plane of the illustration, and parallel with the plane of the alignment layers 802, 805.

As shown in FIG. 6(c), the conductive ITO layers 802, 806 are connected to a power supply at 900 which applies a high AC voltage which re-orients the molecules of both the monomer (e.g. 856) and the liquid crystal moieties (857) parallel to the z-axis 5 orthogonal to the surfaces of the glass covers. However, due to the strong anchoring force provided by the alignment layers, the molecular orientations (e.g. 854, 855) near the alignment layer surfaces remain parallel to the rubbing directions.

As illustrated in FIG. 6(d), the structure is exposed to actinic UV radiation 910 while the AC electric field is applied. This radiation triggers the photo-initiator and activates the photo-polymerization of the monomer. When the monomer reacts to form polymer chains, the polymeric films with embedded liquid crystal moieties results between the two glass covers. A polymer network (e.g. 860) that results from the polymerization traps and helps to maintain the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules in the polymeric layer.

As illustrated in FIG. 6(e), after the polymerization is complete, the electric field and UV radiation can be removed. Then, as shown in FIG. 6(f), the glass covers 802, 801, along with the ITO and alignment layers (802, 803 and 805, 806) are peeled off of the polymeric layer 1000.

As a result, the polymeric layer in this example can be optically anisotropic since the directors of the liquid crystal moieties through the majority of the polymeric layer in the center away from the surfaces in contact with the alignment layers lie on the z-axis. The liquid crystal molecules on the surface of the polymeric layers remain disposed parallel to the surfaces of the alignment layer and confined by the polymer networks. Thus the surface of the polymeric layer can be used to align liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer in the structures described above.

This process can be used to set different orientations of the liquid crystal molecules on the surface of the polymeric layers, by changing the rubbing directions and materials of the alignment layers 803, 805 during fabrication. Also, by applying variable electric fields during polymerization, the alignment direction throughout the polymeric layer can be caused to tilt, resulting in a passive lens effect.

In one specific example, the polymeric layer consists of reactive mesogen (RM257), liquid crystal (MLC2144) and the photo-initiator (IRG184) with the ratio of RM257:MLC2144:IRG184=79 wt %:20 wt %: 1 wt %. RM257 is 1,4-Bis-[4-(3-acryloyloxypropyloxy)benzoyloxy]-2-methylbenzene with the CAS 174063-87-7. IRG184 is 1-Hydroxycyclohexyl phenyl ketone with the CAS 947-19-3.

In one embodiment, the reactive monomer used for the purposes of forming the posts as discussed with reference to FIGS. 4(a) to 4(f) can be the same (e.g. RM257) as used as a reactive monomer in the formation of the polymeric layers. In other embodiments, the polymer precursors can be different in the two procedures. Also, different polymer precursors and liquid crystal materials can be used for different polymeric layers in some embodiments.

The materials for fabricating polymeric layers are not limited to RM257, IRG184 and MLC2144. Alternative materials can include other liquid crystalline monomers and photo-initiators. Also, the liquid crystal (MLC2144) could be replaced by other nematic liquid crystals.

FIG. 7 illustrates a flexible single-layer liquid crystal cell formed on a curved substrate. This structure can be made using the process described above, for example, with glass covers in the process cell having curved surfaces. The liquid crystal cell includes a liquid crystal layer 325 disposed in a gap between polymeric layer 324 and polymeric layer 327, where the polymeric layers 324 and 327 comprise flexible or elastic polymer mixed with liquid crystal moieties configured to act as alignment layers for the liquid crystal layer 325. The polymeric layers 324, 327 have liquid crystal moieties having a vertical director in the central region of the layers, and horizontal directors on the surfaces. In the upper polymeric layer 324 in this example, the directors on the surfaces are horizontal relative to the major surface of the liquid crystal layer 325, and parallel to the plane of the illustration. In the lower polymeric layer 327 in this example, the directors on the upper surface are horizontal relative to the major surface of the liquid crystal layer 325, and parallel to the plane of the illustration. On the lower surface of the lower polymeric layers 327, the directors are parallel to those on the upper surface. The orientations of the directors in this example result in the alignment directions on the upper and lower surfaces of the liquid crystal layer 25 parallel to one another.

An array of posts (e.g. post 326) is disposed in the liquid crystal layer 325. The posts in the array extend from the upper polymeric layer 324 to the lower polymeric layer 327, and tend to maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 325.

Preferably the posts and the polymeric layers comprise an elastic polymer or elastomer.

The liquid crystal is confined in the gap between the first and second polymeric layers around the posts in the array of posts.

In this example, electrical components are disposed in a dielectric polymer (including layers 320, 322, 329 in this example). The electrical components include a resistive layer 323, a patterned electrode layer 321 over the upper polymeric layer 324, and pad electrode layer 328 below the lower polymeric layer 327.

In one representative embodiment, the substrate of the liquid crystal cell includes the dielectric layers 20, 22 comprising PDMS.

The radius of curvature of the cell can range in various embodiments from about 100 mm to 8 mm or less. For example, the radius of curvature can range from 100 mm to 1 mm.

Embodiments of the liquid crystal cell shown in FIG. 7 can maintain optical properties after having been folded over a small radius, and returned to the original shape.

FIG. 8 illustrates a flexible two-layer liquid crystal cell formed on a curved substrate. In FIG. 8, the cell includes a first liquid crystal layer 425 and a second liquid crystal layer 428. The first liquid crystal layer 425 is disposed in a gap between an upper (first) liquid crystal polymeric layer 424 and an intermediate (second) liquid crystal polymeric layer 427. The second liquid crystal layer 428 is disposed in a gap between the intermediate liquid crystal polymeric layer 427, and a lower (third) liquid crystal polymeric layer 430.

The upper polymeric layer 424 has directors on the lower surface adjacent the liquid crystal layer 425 that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5 of the cell, and parallel to the plane of the illustration. The intermediate polymeric layer 427 has directors on the upper surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 425 that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5, and parallel to the plane of the illustration (i.e. parallel to the directors on the lower surface of the upper polymeric layer 424). The intermediate polymeric layer 427 has directors on the lower surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 428 that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5, and orthogonal to the plane of the illustration (i.e. orthogonal to the directors on the upper surface of the intermediate polymeric layer 427). Lower polymeric layer 430 has directors on its upper surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 428 orthogonal to the z-axis 5 and orthogonal to the plane of the illustration (i.e. parallel to the directors on the lower surface of the intermediate polymeric layer 427).

The polymeric layers 424, 427, 430 act as alignment layers for the liquid crystal layers. The intermediate polymeric layer 427 has orthogonal directors on its upper and lower surfaces. The upper and lower polymeric layers 424, 430 may be replaced in some embodiments by other alignment layer materials, such as a brushed polyimide layer.

An array of posts (e.g. 426) is disposed in a gap between the upper polymeric layer 424 and the intermediate polymeric layer 427, and is surrounded by the liquid crystal material in the liquid crystal layer 425 confined in the gap. The posts in the array extend from the upper polymeric layer 424 to the intermediate polymeric layer 427, tending to maintain the thickness as discussed above.

A second array of posts (e.g. 429) is disposed in a gap between the intermediate polymeric layer 427 and the lower polymeric layer 430. The second array of posts is surrounded by the liquid crystal material in the liquid crystal layer 428 confined in the gap.

In this example, electrical components are disposed in a dielectric polymer substrate, including layers 432, 433, 434. Electrical components include a resistive layer 423, a patterned electrode layer 421 disposed over the upper polymeric layer 424, and a pad electrode layer 431 below the lower polymeric layer 430.

The curved embodiments of FIGS. 7 and 8 can provide passive, additive lens power to the electroactive component of the cell.

Embodiments of the liquid crystal cells shown in FIGS. 7 and 8 can maintain optical properties after having been folded over a small radius, and returned to the original shape.

FIG. 9 illustrates another embodiment of a two-layer liquid crystal cell utilizing hybrid alignment of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layers. The cell includes a first liquid crystal layer 505 and a second liquid crystal layer 508. The first liquid crystal layer 505 is disposed in a gap between an upper vertical alignment layer 504, which can comprise PDMS for example, and an intermediate polymeric layer 507. The second liquid crystal layer 508 is disposed in a gap between the intermediate polymeric layer 507, and a lower vertical alignment layer 510.

The intermediate polymeric layer 507 has directors on the upper surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 505 that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5 (parallel to the surface of liquid crystal layer 505), and orthogonal to the plane of the illustration. The intermediate polymeric layer 507 has directors on the lower surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 508 that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5, and parallel to the plane of the illustration (i.e. orthogonal to the directors on the upper surface of the intermediate polymeric layer 507).

The directors in the liquid crystal layers 505, 508 adjacent to the upper vertical alignment layer 504 and the lower vertical alignment layer 510 are arranged vertically, parallel to the z-axis 5, in the plane of the illustration. The directors in the liquid crystal layers twist between the upper and lower surfaces of liquid crystal layers 505, 508 as illustrated, in orthogonal planes because of the alignment function of the intermediate polymeric layer 507.

The liquid crystal layers 505 and 508 have identical thickness between the polymeric layers, within reasonable manufacturing and optical performance tolerances.

An array of posts (e.g. 506) is disposed in a gap between the upper alignment layer 504 and the intermediate polymeric layer 507, and is surrounded by the liquid crystal material in the liquid crystal layer 505 confined in the gap. The posts in the array extend from the upper alignment layer 504 to the intermediate polymeric layer 507, tending to maintain the thickness as discussed above.

A second array of posts (e.g. 509) is disposed in a gap between the intermediate polymeric layer 507 and the lower alignment layer 510. The second array of posts is surrounded by the liquid crystal material in the liquid crystal layer 508 confined in the gap.

In this example, electrical components are disposed in a dielectric polymer substrate, including layers 512, 510 500, 504. Electrical components include a resistive layer 502, a polyimide layer 501, a patterned electrode layer 503 disposed over the upper alignment layer 504, and a pad electrode layer 511 below the lower alignment layer 510. In this structure, the response time can be faster than that of the structure described with reference to FIGS. 3A-3D. However, the tunable range may be lesser.

FIG. 10 illustrates an alternative embodiment like that of FIG. 9, and the same reference numbers are used to refer to the same components, and not described again. In this embodiment, the position of the patterned electrode 523 and the resistive film 521/polyimide film 522 structures are reversed, so that the patterned electrode 523 overlies the resistive film 521. Otherwise the structures are similar, and can behave in similar fashions.

The liquid crystal cells of FIG. 9 and FIG. 10 can maintain their optical properties after having been folded over a small radius, and returned to the original shape.

In alternative embodiments, a patterned electrode may not be utilized. A non-uniform electric field can be generated by a pair of transparent pad-shaped electrodes with the addition of dielectric layers having spatially distributed dielectric constants or surfaces into the structure.

FIG. 11 illustrates one embodiment of the structure having transparent electrodes 601 and 610 without electrode patterning.

The cell shown in FIG. 11 includes a first liquid crystal layer 604 and the second liquid crystal layer 607. The first liquid crystal layer 604 is disposed in a gap between an upper (first) liquid crystal polymeric layer 603 and an intermediate (second) liquid crystal polymeric layer 606. The second liquid crystal layer 607 is disposed in a gap between the intermediate liquid crystal polymeric layer 606 and a lower (third) liquid crystal polymeric layer 609.

The upper polymeric layer 603 has directors on the lower surface adjacent the liquid crystal layer 604 that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5 (parallel to the surface of liquid crystal layer 604) and orthogonal to the plane of the illustration. The intermediate polymeric layer 606 has directors on the upper surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 604 that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5 (parallel to the surface of liquid crystal layer 604), and orthogonal to the plane of the illustration (i.e. parallel to the directors on the lower surface of the upper polymeric layer 603). The intermediate polymeric layer 606 has directors on the lower surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 607 that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5 (parallel to the surface of liquid crystal layer 607), and parallel to the plane of the illustration (i.e. orthogonal to the directors on the upper surface of the intermediate polymeric layer 606). Lower polymeric layer 609 has directors on its upper surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 607 that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5 (parallel to the surface of liquid crystal layer 607) and parallel to the plane of the illustration (i.e. parallel to the directors on the lower surface of the intermediate polymeric layer 606).

The liquid crystal layers 604 and 607 have identical thickness between the polymeric layers, within reasonable manufacturing and optical performance tolerances.

An array of posts (e.g. 605) is disposed in a gap between the upper polymeric layer 603 and the intermediate polymeric layer 606, and is surrounded by the liquid crystal material in the liquid crystal layer 604 confined in the gap. The posts in the array extend from the upper polymeric layer 603 to the intermediate polymeric layer 606, tending to maintain the thickness as discussed above.

A second array of posts (e.g. 608) is disposed in a gap between the intermediate polymeric layer 606 and the lower polymeric layer 609. The second array of posts is surrounded by the liquid crystal material in the liquid crystal layer 607 confined in the gap.

In this example, electrical components are disposed in a dielectric polymer substrate, including layers 600, 602, 611 electrical components include flat transparent electrodes 601 disposed over the upper polymeric layer 603, and flat transparent electrodes 610 below the lower polymeric layer 609.

In this kind of structure, there is no need for a resistive layer or a patterned electrode. However, the overall thickness of the structure can be increased. The polymeric layers 603, 606, 609 act as alignment layers for the liquid crystal layers. The intermediate polymeric layer 606 has orthogonal directors on its upper and lower surfaces. In this example, the upper surface 603A of the upper polymeric layer 603 is curved, along with a matching curve of the dielectric material in layer 602. The curve can result in generation of a non-uniform electric field when a voltage is applied on the flat transparent electrodes 601 and 610.

The liquid crystal cell of FIG. 11 can maintain its optical properties after having been folded over a small radius, and returned to the original shape.

FIG. 12 illustrates another embodiment in which flat transparent electrodes are used rather than patterned electrodes. In FIG. 12, a two-layer liquid crystal cell utilizing hybrid alignment of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layers is illustrated. The cell in FIG. 12 includes a first liquid crystal layer 704 and a second liquid crystal layer 707. The first liquid crystal layer 704 is disposed in a gap between an upper vertical alignment layer 703, which can comprise PDMS for example, and an intermediate polymeric layer 706. The second liquid crystal layer is disposed in a gap between the intermediate polymeric layer 706, and a lower vertical alignment layer 709.

The intermediate polymeric layer 706 has directors on the upper surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 704 that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5 (parallel to the surface of liquid crystal layer 704), and orthogonal to the plane of the illustration. The intermediate polymeric layer 706 has directors on the lower surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 707 that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5 (parallel to the surface of liquid crystal layer 707), and lie in the plane of the illustration (i.e. orthogonal to the directors on the upper surface of the intermediate polymeric layer 706). A curved polymeric layer 702 is disposed over and in contact with the upper alignment layer 703. This forms a curved surface 703A in the path of the electric field between the flat transparent electrodes 701 and 710.

The PDMS layers act as vertical alignment layers 703, 709 for the structure. As a result, the directors in the liquid crystal layers 704, 707 adjacent to the upper vertical alignment layer 703 and the lower vertical alignment layer 709 are arranged vertically, along the optical path. The directors in the liquid crystal layers twist in orthogonal planes between the upper and lower surfaces as illustrated, because of the alignment function of the intermediate polymeric layer 706.

The liquid crystal layers 704 and 707 have identical thickness between the polymeric layers, within reasonable manufacturing and optical performance tolerances.

An array of posts (e.g. 705) is disposed in a gap between the upper alignment layer 703 and the intermediate polymeric layer 706, and is surrounded by the liquid crystal material in the liquid crystal layer 704 confined in the gap. The posts in the array extend from the upper alignment layer 703 to the intermediate polymeric layer 706, tending to maintain the thickness as discussed above.

A second array of posts (e.g. 708) is disposed in a gap between the intermediate polymeric layer 706 and the lower alignment layer 709. The second array of posts is surrounded by the liquid crystal material in the liquid crystal layer 707 confined in the gap.

In this example, electrical components include a flat transparent electrode layer 701 disposed over the curved polymeric layer 702, and a flat transparent electrode layer 710 below the lower alignment layer 709. Dielectric substrate layers 700, 711 are disposed on the opposing surfaces of the cell.

The liquid crystal cell of FIG. 12 can maintain its optical properties after having been folded over a small radius, and returned to the original shape.

As mentioned above, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal and polymer films can be defined by an external electric field applied during the photo-polymerization. By applying a non-uniform electric field during the process, the resulting liquid crystal polymer film can have a fixed lens power. Using the lens power of liquid crystal polymer lenses in combination with the flexible electroactive components can add lens power to the structure.

An example two-layer liquid crystal electroactive cell, with lens power added by the liquid crystal polymeric layers is shown in FIG. 13.

In FIG. 13, the cell includes a first liquid crystal layer 954 and a second liquid crystal layer 957. The first liquid crystal layer 954 is disposed in a gap between an upper (first) liquid crystal polymeric layer 953 and an intermediate (second) liquid crystal polymeric layer 956. The second liquid crystal layer 957 is disposed in a gap between the intermediate liquid crystal polymeric layer 956, and a lower (third) liquid crystal polymeric layer 959.

The upper polymeric layer 953 has directors between its surfaces distributed to induce lens power, and has directors on its upper and lower surfaces that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5 (parallel to the surface of liquid crystal layer 954), and orthogonal to the plane of the illustration. The directors between the surfaces of the upper polymeric layer 953 tilt by amounts that are a function of their location relative to center line of the optical zone, in planes parallel to the z-axis 5, and orthogonal to the plane of the illustration in this example.

The intermediate polymeric layer 956 has directors on the upper surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 954 that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5 (parallel to the surface of liquid crystal layer 954), and orthogonal to the plane of the illustration (i.e. parallel to the directors on the lower surface of the upper polymeric layer 953). The intermediate polymeric layer 956 has directors on the lower surface adjacent to the liquid crystal layer 957 that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5 (parallel to the surface of liquid crystal layer 957), and parallel to the plane of the illustration (i.e. orthogonal to the directors on the upper surface of the intermediate polymeric layer 956). The directors between the surfaces and the intermediate polymeric layer 956 are arranged vertically.

Lower polymeric layer 959 has directors between its surfaces distributed to induce lens power, and has directors on its upper and lower surfaces that are orthogonal to the z-axis 5 (parallel to the surface of liquid crystal layer 957) and parallel to the plane of the illustration (i.e. parallel to the directors on the lower surface of the intermediate polymeric layer 956). The directors between the surfaces of the lower polymeric layer 959 tilt by amounts that are a function of their location relative to center line of the optical zone, in planes parallel to the z-axis 5, and parallel to the plane of the illustration in this example. As a result, the orientations of the directors between the surfaces in the upper and lower polymeric layers are orthogonal to one another.

The polymeric layers 953, 956, 959 act as alignment layers for the liquid crystal layers.

The liquid crystal layers 954 and 957 have identical thickness between the polymeric layers, within reasonable manufacturing and optical performance tolerances.

An array of posts (e.g. 955) is disposed in a gap between the upper polymeric layer 953 and the intermediate polymeric layer 956, and is surrounded by the liquid crystal material in the liquid crystal layer 954 confined in the gap. The posts in the array extend from the upper polymeric layer 953 to the intermediate polymeric layer 956, and tend to maintain the thickness as discussed above.

A second array of posts (e.g. 958) is disposed in a gap between the intermediate polymeric layer 956 and the lower polymeric layer 959. The second array of posts is surrounded by the liquid crystal material in the liquid crystal layer 957 confined in the gap.

In this example, electrical components are disposed in a dielectric polymer substrate, including layers 950, 961, 962. Electrical components include a resistive layer 951B, with the contacting polyimide layer 951A, a patterned electrode layer 952 disposed over the upper polymeric layer 953, and a transparent pad electrode layer 960 below the lower polymeric layer 959.

The distributed directors in the upper polymeric layer 953 and the lower polymeric layer 959 provide added lens power to the electroactive cell. In some embodiments, the passive lens power provided by the polymeric layers 953 and 959 can be combined with electroactive power provided by the liquid crystal layers to enable utilization of the lens structure to focus on near objects and on far objects.

The liquid crystal cell of FIG. 13 can maintain its optical properties after having been folded over a small radius, and returned to the original shape.

The flexible liquid crystal cell technology described is suitable for use in flexible lenses, such as contact lenses, which can be elastic in the sense that the structure will return to its original shape and original optical properties after having been folded.

Embodiments of flexible liquid crystal cells can include optics that are all polymer based. In some embodiments, the liquid crystal cell can include a polarizer or be polarizer-free. In some embodiments, there is a single liquid crystal layer. In other embodiments there are two or more liquid crystal layers.

The technology described for manufacturing an array of posts within a liquid crystal layer is based on photo-polymerization at low temperature of a mixture including polymer precursors and liquid crystal material. The photo-polymerization induces a phase separation and polymerization of the precursors to form the array of posts, according to a pattern formed using a lithographic mask for example.

Flexible liquid crystal cells described herein can be folded on themselves without breaking, and can be returned to the original shape while recovering optical properties of the electroactive lens.

For example, the thickness of the liquid crystal layers can be maintained before and after folding, such that the average thickness before and after folding remains within 10% of the initial thickness. Also, the thickness of the liquid crystal layers can be a uniform thickness before and after folding, varying for example by less than 1.2 μm from the center of the optic to the edge of the effective aperture of the optic.

The technology is described for implementing flexible optical elements that use liquid crystals to realize electrically tunable optics. The liquid crystal optics can include a pair of liquid crystal layers with orthogonally aligned liquid crystal directors to enable polarizer-free operation, with flexible polymeric alignment layers, flexible substrates and a module for controlling the electric field. Lens power of the liquid crystal optics can be changed by controlling the distribution of the electric field across the entire optical zone. For patients with myopia and presbyopia, a flexible contact lens can be implemented using the technology described herein with a negative lens power for the purposes of focusing on far objects, and an additive lens power for the purposes focusing on near objects. In some examples, the negative lens power can be provided by passive structure of the stack of optical layers, combined with the electro-optic active structure of the liquid crystal layers. Thus, it can be understood that a flexible contact lens can include a flexible optical element that uses liquid crystals, as described herein.

A flexible optical element adopting liquid crystals (LCs) as the materials for realizing electrically tunable optics is described. The LC optics can include a pair of LCs layered with orthogonally aligned LC directors for polarizer-free operation, flexible polymeric alignment layers, flexible substrates, and a module for controlling the electric field. The lens power of the LC optics can be changed by controlling the distribution of electric field across the optical zone. The liquid crystal cells as described herein can be included in a contact lens that comprises a flexible polymer.

For patients with myopia and presbyopia, or hyperopia and presbyopia, simultaneously, a flexible contact lens is described with negative lens power to support focus on far objects and an added positive lens power to support focus on near objects. The LC optics can provide the added positive lens power electrically and can be combined with the flexible contact lens with passive, initial negative lens power for those patients.

Manufacturing processes described herein have been described in a particular order. Some of the steps can be combined, performed in parallel or performed in a different sequence without affecting the functions achieved. In some cases, as the reader will appreciate, a rearrangement of steps will achieve the same results only if certain other changes are made as well. In other cases, as the reader will appreciate, a rearrangement of steps will achieve the same results only if certain conditions are satisfied.

While the present invention is disclosed by reference to the preferred embodiments and examples detailed above, it is to be understood that these examples are intended in an illustrative rather than in a limiting sense. It is contemplated that modifications and combinations will readily occur to those skilled in the art, which modifications and combinations will be within the spirit of the invention and the scope of the following claims. What is claimed is: 

1. A flexible electrically tunable liquid crystal lens, comprising: a liquid crystal cell having a cell gap thickness X prior to bending the liquid crystal lens, and a cell gap thickness Y after bending the liquid crystal lens, wherein Y=X±10% X.
 2. The flexible electrically tunable liquid crystal lens of claim 1, wherein the liquid crystal cell comprises polymer posts effective in limiting changes in the cell gap thickness to maintain Y=X±10% X.
 3. The flexible electrically tunable liquid crystal lens of claim 1, including a polymer lens body encasing the liquid crystal cell.
 4. The flexible electrically tunable liquid crystal lens of claim 1, wherein the liquid crystal cell includes first and second alignment layers, and a layer of liquid crystal between the first and second alignment layers, the first and second alignment layers comprising a flexible polymeric material.
 5. The flexible electrically tunable liquid crystal lens of claim 4, wherein the liquid crystal cell comprises an array of polymer posts extending through the layer of liquid crystal bonded to the first and second alignment layers.
 6. The flexible electrically tunable liquid crystal lens of claim 4, wherein said bending includes folding the cell on a radius of 1 to 9 mm.
 7. The flexible electrically tunable liquid crystal lens of claim 4, wherein at least one of the first and second alignment layers has liquid crystal moieties with distributed directors which induce passive lens power.
 8. The flexible electrically tunable liquid crystal lens of claim 1, wherein the liquid crystal cell includes first, second and third alignment layers; a first layer of liquid crystal between the first and second alignment layers; and a second layer of liquid crystal between the second and third alignment layers; the second alignment layer comprising a combination of liquid crystal and polymer material.
 9. The flexible electrically tunable liquid crystal lens of claim 8, wherein at least one of the first and third alignment layers has liquid crystal moieties with distributed directors which induce passive lens power.
 10. An electrically tunable lens, comprising: a first alignment layer and a second alignment layer; an array of elastic polymer posts in a gap between the first alignment layer and the second alignment layer, posts in the array extending from the first alignment layer to the second alignment layer; liquid crystal confined in the gap between the first and second alignment layers around posts in the array; and one or more electrodes arranged to induce an electric field in the liquid crystal.
 11. The electrically tunable lens of claim 10, wherein the at least one of the first and second alignment layers and the array of posts comprise a polymer of a common mesogen.
 12. The electrically tunable lens of claim 10, wherein the first and second alignment layers include liquid crystal moieties aligned near the surfaces adjacent to the gap.
 13. The electrically tunable lens of claim 10, including a third alignment layer and a second array of elastomer posts in a second gap between the second alignment layer and the alignment polymeric layer, posts in the second array extending from the second alignment layer to the third alignment layer; and liquid crystal confined in the second gap around posts in the second array.
 14. The electrically tunable lens of claim 13, wherein the second alignment layer includes liquid crystal moieties having directors aligned orthogonal to an optical path and parallel near a first surface adjacent to the first mentioned gap, and directors aligned orthogonal to an optical path near a second surface adjacent to the second mentioned gap and orthogonal to the directors near the first surface.
 15. The electrically tunable lens of claim 14, wherein the first and third alignment layers are configured for vertical alignment, inducing directors near the first alignment layer in the liquid crystal in the first mentioned gap and directors near the third alignment layer in the liquid crystal in the second gap to align parallel to the optical path.
 16. The electrically tunable lens of claim 14, wherein the first and third alignment layers are configured for alignment orthogonal to an optical path, inducing directors near the first alignment layer in the liquid crystal in the first mentioned gap and directors near the third alignment layer in the liquid crystal in the second gap to align orthogonal to the optical path.
 17. The electrically tunable lens of claim 14, wherein at least one of the first and third alignment layers has passive lens power.
 18. The electrically tunable lens of claim 13, wherein the first, second and third alignment layers comprise polymeric alignment layers.
 19. The electrically tunable lens of claim 10, wherein the gap has an average thickness X prior to bending over a fold radius less than 10 mm, and an average thickness Y after recovering from the bending, wherein Y=X±10% X.
 20. A method for manufacturing a liquid crystal cell, comprising: assembling a first flexible alignment layer and a second flexible alignment layer with a gap therebetween; forming elastic polymer posts extending across the gap between the first flexible alignment layer and the second flexible alignment layer; and providing liquid crystal material in the gap surrounding the posts.
 21. The method of claim 20, including forming the elastic polymer posts by placing a polymer pre-cursor in the gap, and inducing polymerization in the gap.
 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the polymer pre-cursor comprises combination of a monomer and a photo-initiator compound.
 23. The method of claim 21, wherein said forming elastic polymer posts includes exposing the polymer pre-cursor in the gap to actinic radiation through a patterned mask.
 24. The method of claim 21, wherein the polymer pre-cursor comprises combination of a mesogen and a photo-initiator compound.
 25. The method of claim 20, including filling the gap with the liquid crystal and a polymer precursor, and forming the elastic polymer posts by inducing polymerization of the polymer precursor according to a pattern.
 26. The method of claim 20, wherein the first flexible alignment layer and the second flexible alignment layer comprise polymeric films.
 27. The method of claim 20, wherein the first flexible alignment layer and the second flexible alignment layer comprise polymeric films with embedded liquid crystal moieties.
 28. The method of claim 20, wherein the first and second flexible alignment layers and the posts comprise a polymer of a common mesogen.
 29. The method of claim 20, including assembling a third flexible alignment layer with the first and second flexible alignment layers, with a second gap between the second alignment layer and the third flexible alignment layer; and forming elastomer posts extending across the second gap; and filling the second gap with a liquid crystal material surrounding the posts in the second gap.
 30. The method of claim 29, wherein the first, second and third flexible layers are alignment layers arranged to induce alignment in a first orientation of liquid crystals in the liquid crystal material in the first mentioned gap, and alignment in a second different orientation of liquid crystals in the liquid crystal material in the second gap. 